Summer may be winding down, but there's still time for one more family adventure! Before the school bells ring and calendars fill up with homework, sports, and activities, consider sneaking away for one last weekend getaway. The best part? You don't have to travel far to make unforgettable memories.

Here are 10 easy ideas for a fun-filled end-of-summer escape.

1. Head to the Beach

There's nothing like one last day building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and watching the sunset over the water. Whether it's the Gulf Coast, the Atlantic, or a nearby lake beach, a quick beach trip is the perfect way to say goodbye to summer.

​Find a beach near you!​

2. Explore a National Park

Late summer is a wonderful time to visit a national park before fall crowds arrive. Kids can earn Junior Ranger badges, spot wildlife, and spend the day hiking, biking, or exploring scenic overlooks.

Some family favorites include:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Acadia National Park
• Shenandoah National Park
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Indiana Dunes National Park

​Check out our favorite National Parks​

3. Rent a Cozy Cabin

Escape the busy pace of everyday life with a weekend in the woods. Roast marshmallows, paddle a canoe, play board games, and unplug for a couple of days.

Sometimes the best vacations don't include Wi-Fi.

4. Discover a Nearby Small Town

Every state has charming small towns filled with local restaurants, ice cream shops, walkable downtowns, and unique attractions. Spend the day exploring somewhere you've never been and you might just find your new favorite weekend destination.

5. Visit a Waterpark

Whether it's a massive resort or your local waterpark, kids never complain about spending a day racing down slides and floating a lazy river. It's a great way to squeeze every last drop out of summer.

6. Take a Scenic Road Trip

Choose a destination within a few hours of home, create a fun playlist, pack everyone's favorite snacks, and hit the road. Stop at quirky roadside attractions, local diners, and scenic overlooks along the way.

The journey really can be part of the adventure.

​Check out some of our favorite summer road trips​

7. Camp Under the Stars

Whether you pitch a tent, rent a yurt, or go glamping, camping is one of the easiest ways to reconnect as a family. Tell stories around the campfire, make s'mores, and spend an evening looking for constellations.

​Don’t miss our favorite places for glamping with kids!​

8. Spend the Weekend at a Family Resort

Many family-friendly resorts offer pools, activities, kids' clubs, and evening entertainment, making them ideal for a stress-free getaway where everyone can relax.

​Here’s some of the best resorts for all ages!​

9. Explore a New City

Play tourist in a city you've never visited. Visit a children's museum, zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, or local food market. Even one night away can feel like a real vacation.

10. Plan a "Hometown Vacation"

If travel isn't in the budget, create an unforgettable staycation. Book a hotel with a pool, try a new restaurant, visit local attractions, or spend the weekend doing things you normally save for visitors. You'll be surprised how much fun you can have close to home.

​Staycation ideas​

Make Summer Count

The first day of school will be here before you know it, but there's still time for one more adventure. These last summer weekends are the perfect opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and make a few more family memories.

Happy travels, and here's to one last summer adventure!

Kirsten